Song meaning of Miracle by Matilda the Musical Original Cast

The song "Miracle" from Matilda the Musical explores the concept of self-perception and parental influence on a child's sense of identity. The lyrics highlight the different ways children perceive themselves based on what their parents have told them. Lavender, Eric, and Alice believe they are miracles, angels, and princesses respectively, echoing the positive affirmations given by their parents.

However, Bruce and Amanda, while also having positive self-perceptions, have a more assertive and aggressive stance with Bruce portraying himself as a soldier and Amanda emphasizing her uniqueness. Nigel and Tommy express their desire for power and dominance as they see themselves as special little soldiers who can shoot others in the face.

The lyrics also reveal the superficiality and vanity of parents, as they focus on appearances and expect their children to behave in certain ways to live up to their expectations. The parents' desire for their children to be extraordinary reflects societal pressure for exceptionalism. The song satirizes the absurdity of this mentality, suggesting that every child is a miracle in their own right just by existing.

Matilda's verse disrupts the pattern, presenting a contrasting perspective as she feels unloved and unwanted by her parents. This contrast highlights the impact of negative parental influence on a child's self-perception.

In conclusion, "Miracle" explores the theme of parental influence on a child's self-perception and the impact it has on their sense of identity, highlighting the varying ways children perceive themselves based on what their parents have told them. It also critiques the societal pressure for exceptionalism and the superficiality of parental expectations.